Stepped on a sea urchin, glass, a thorn, or a wooden shard? Don’t suffer or try to dig it out.
At The Chelsea Clinic in South Kensington, we offer same‑day, podiatrist‑led splinter removal that’s quick, clean and comfortable.
Book now for same‑day help — we remove the splinter, protect the area, and get you back on your feet with confidence.
Why see a professional instead of DIY?
- Speed & comfort: We use magnification and precise instruments to remove splinters in minutes.
- Complete removal: Minimises breakage and reduces infection risk.
- Sterile technique: Medical‑grade hygiene and skin‑friendly cleansers (e.g., Clinisept+).
- Comfort options: Local anaesthetic available if the area is very sore or the splinter is deep/under the nail.
- High‑risk expertise: Safe care for diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or if you’re on blood thinners.
- Escalation ready: Referral for imaging if we suspect any retained fragment.
What happens at your appointment?
- Targeted assessment — brief history, exact location, and check for infection signs.
- Magnified inspection — dermatoscope/illumination to map entry path and angle.
- Comfort first — we can numb the area (toe/field block) if needed.
- Sterile removal — gentle, precise extraction of the entire fragment.
- Cleanse & protect — irrigate, apply a protective dressing/off‑load for tenderness.
- Clear after‑care — simple home steps and warning signs to watch for.
- Follow‑up — review if the skin was inflamed, you’re high‑risk, or work/sport requires it.
How we help
- Deep or hidden splinters
- Under or near the toenail (subungual)
- Thorns/wood barbs that tend to splinter
- Glass or multiple fine fragments
- Pain, swelling or possible infection
- High‑risk feet: diabetes, PAD, neuropathy, anticoagulants
Please avoid digging or squeezing before your visit — it can push fragments deeper and increase infection risk.
Why The Chelsea Clinic?
- Podiatry‑led medical care with a calm, discreet experience
- Same‑day / next‑day appointments
- South Kensington location with excellent transport links
- Trusted by Londoners for nail & skin procedures
- After‑care on WhatsApp/email for quick reassurance
Fees & booking
Transparent, self‑pay friendly — receipts provided for insurance where applicable.
Areas we cover
We are located in Kensington and cover South Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Mayfair, Kensington, Holland Park — and patients visiting from across London.
FAQs
Will I need a tetanus shot?
If the wound was dirty (e.g., garden/soil) and your tetanus status is unclear and after taking a full case history and assessment we will then advise you if you need to contact your GP or NHS 111.
Can I walk afterwards?
Yes, usually straight away. We may pad or off‑load tender areas for comfort.
Will it be painful?
Most removals are quick with minimal discomfort; we can numb the area if needed.
What about children?
We’re experienced with kids — gentle approach, quick numbing when appropriate, clear guidance for home.
We now offer home visits and online consultations!
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